St. John Leonard’s School

St.Leonard’s Primary School is located in Mpigi District, a small town 20 miles from Kampala. It is an area affected by rural poverty, where nearly 10% of girls aged 12-17 have already given birth. In addition, there is a high level of disinterest in education and over 20% of people aged 18+ are illiterate. Schooling, life-skills training, and engaging activities are therefore key to getting these children and young people off the streets and setting them on the right path for a brighter future.

In 2016, Brass for Africa launched its first small music programme for 17 disadvantaged children in the School. Using music as a tool to engage, this project aims to address the gap between poverty and education and boost community development. Over the past few years, we have steadily grown our impact and now support some of the poorest residents within this community, who gain twice-weekly access to high-quality, comprehensive and structured music and life-skills education.

So far, the impact on the pupils has been huge. The School Headmaster reports a higher school attendance, enhanced student achievement and positive parental involvement.